What is a limiting belief?
A belief expressed in thought, feeling or emotion which restricts action. Have you ever told yourself, "I can't do something," and suddenly found yourself loathing that situation? "I can't make friends easily," leads to an avid dislike of parties.
Why is it bad for you?
Untrue beliefs steal your best. A limiting belief restricts potential. It impedes output and is generally useless for achieving goals. When it's time to act, you end up with something less than excellent because it reduces your confidence.
An example of a limiting belief would be fear of public speaking. The thought, "I'm going to suck at this," occurs during preparation. That thought can take root and flourish in your anxiety. It manifests in stress, the body releases cortisol expecting an undesirable situation and shuts down other key parts of the brain that are crucial for clear, logical thinking.
Public speaking requires confidence. The delivery of a speech is more important than content. Confidence is a result of preparation and past success. When we are unprepared or brush aside past victories, limiting beliefs play havoc on our mind.
How do you overcome a limiting belief?
Ask yourself the question, "Have I ever done this in the past? Was the result good on that occasion? If yes, you've eliminated any basis for the limiting belief. Next, with a bit of hard work in preparation, you're all set to do your best!
